Interview with Efe Oraka

This week we got the chance to interview Abuja’s Princess, Singer and Songwriter Efe Oraka. And this was how it went!!!!!!!!!!!!

• What’s your full name and why do you choose to use your real name as your stage name?

My full name is Eferoghene Florence Tamunodein Oraka. My stage name is Efe Oraka. Efe is actually the shortened form of ‘Eferoghene’ and I chose to use Efe Oraka as my stage name, because I just really like my name.

• Where were you born and raised?

I was born and raised in Lagos State but I move to Abuja when I was about 8 or 9.

• When is your birthday?

My birthday is on the 12th of April

• What University do you attend and what do you study?

I’m currently not in any university right now but I intend on studying law.

• At what time in your life did you realize you want to start making music?

I realized I wanted to start making music when I was 9. This was due to the fact that I always had melodies in my head and when I sang them out with the right words, they made sense. Music was also a form of escapism and self expression and it made me happy. So I thought to myself, why not share this music with others?

• Tell us your experience in a studio the first time you wanted to record?

Wow, the first time I ever recorded in a studio was in 2010. I was 11 years old then. I was very nervous to say the least. I had to do so many takes of the song because I kept making mistakes. But the end product was amazing because I learnt a lot about how I like to make music and it made me stronger as a musician.

• Do your parents know and support the fact that you do music?

My parents know and fully support me. I actually intend to make a career out of music and both my parents are fully behind me. They’ve bought every instrument and paid for every studio session since I started my musical career.

• Which musician do you look up to in the music industry both local and international?

In Nigeria, I look up to so many musicians such as Asa, Tuface, Timi Dakolo, Adekunle Gold etc because I personally feel like these musicians are not creating ‘generic’ music but rather have taken up the mantle to give Nigerian music a unique sound. Internationally, I look up to Lauryn Hill, Mali music, Sia, Beyoncé, Jon Bellion etc because I love what these artistes do and I personally feel they are living legends.

• Tell us about your first performance and where?

Hmmm… I can’t exactly remember my first performance because ever since I’ve always been involved in performances at school and church respectively. However, I think my first performance outside the aforementioned places was at the NISSMUN Youth Assembly 2012. It was held at the International Conference Center and I performed before over 1000 people. Naturally, I was very nervous but as the crowd received me well, I was able to push through and perform win confidence.

• If you were approached by an upcoming artiste and he wants to work with you on a track what would be your response?

If I was approached by an upcoming artiste to do a song, I’d accept. I’ve done a lot of features with upcoming artistes. I personally believe that since I’m upcoming like the other person, I should strive to help them grow as an artiste and they should as well help me.

• What is your take on the music being produced in Abuja?

I love the music being produced in Abuja! The Capital is moving and it is surely on the rise for a take over! Our sound although eclectic is so genius and unique. It just shows how much creativity lies in us and how far we’re willing to go in terms of breaking musical boundaries!

• What advice do you have for upcoming Artistes out there?

For upcoming artistes, I’ll say, keep pushing. Keep moving. Keep perfecting yourself and honing your craft. Don’t think outside the box as there is no box, just think. Push your mind as far as you can to create the type of music you feel is worthy to be listened to. And lastly, make sure you’re actually as great as you think you are.

• Are we expecting anything new from you soon?

Of course! The only reason why my personal stuff is not out yet is because I’m a bit of a perfectionist and I want to make sure that whatever I put my signature on is by my definition, ‘perfect’. But yes, there will be new songs soon!

• Thanks a lot for your time Efe!

Okay! You’re welcome!

There you have it guys interesting facts about Efe Oraka check back on us next time for more interesting interviews with interesting people. Later Guys!!!!!!!!! #TCM